Summer 2025: Citrus County Schools Construction and Maintenance in Full Swing

Summertime might bring a break in the school calendar, but for Citrus County Schools’ Facilities, Construction, and Maintenance departments, it’s one of the busiest times of the year. With students and teachers away, campuses across the district become hubs of construction, renovation, and deep maintenance work. At the helm of these summer efforts is Director Eric Stokes, a seasoned professional with over 30 years in the construction and facilities industry.

The summer of 2025 is shaping up to be one of the department’s most active in recent memory. With dozens of major projects underway and many more in planning stages, Mr. Stokes and his teams—alongside outside contractors—are executing a wide-ranging slate of work across the district.

Major Projects Currently Under Construction

• Floral City Elementary Front Office Relocation
  A significant safety upgrade is underway with the relocation of the front office. This project, partially funded by a federal COPS grant, enhances campus security by creating a more secure and accessible entry point.
• Floral City Elementary New Classroom Wing
  A brand-new classroom wing is being added and is on track to open for the upcoming school year. This expansion will increase capacity and modernize instructional space for students and staff.
• Lecanto Middle School HVAC Upgrade – Phase II
  The second half of the Lecanto Middle School campus is receiving a much-needed HVAC overhaul. This update ensures improved climate control and energy efficiency throughout the facility.
• Lecanto Middle School First Floor Remodel
  A previously outdated space is being transformed into new classrooms. This important remodel will provide additional instructional space just in time for the fall semester.
• Hernando Elementary School Fire Alarm System Upgrade
  An outdated fire alarm system is being replaced with a modern and more reliable system, increasing the safety of students and staff throughout the campus.
• Crystal River High School Gym Reroofing Project
  A new roof is being installed on the gymnasium building. The Facilities team is working in tandem with Maintenance, which is simultaneously upgrading the building’s air conditioning systems.
• Homosassa Elementary School Intercom System Upgrade
  The original intercom system is being replaced with a more advanced communication system, improving day-to-day operations and emergency communications.
• Citrus High School Construction Academy Storage Building
  A new storage building for the Construction Academy at CHS is being erected. This grant-funded project (through a CTE grant) supports hands-on learning opportunities in skilled trades.
• Welding Program Upgrades at CHS, LHS, and CRHS
  Welding programs across Citrus, Lecanto, and Crystal River High Schools are receiving substantial facility and equipment upgrades. These improvements strengthen career and technical education offerings across the district.
• Marine Science Station Preliminary Concept Planning
  Early-stage planning is underway for future improvements at the district’s Marine Science Station, ensuring this unique learning environment continues to thrive and grow.
• Additional Grant-Funded Projects in Progress
  Several other facility improvement projects—funded through local, state, and federal grants—are underway, adding further capacity, safety, and modernization to school infrastructure across the district.

The Unsung Heroes: Custodial and Maintenance Teams

While construction crews and contractors handle the big projects, a great deal of the summer workload is shouldered by our district’s custodians and maintenance staff. These dedicated teams are working tirelessly to support ongoing construction, refresh buildings, and ensure every school is clean, safe, and ready for the return of students and teachers.

From reflooring and painting to deep cleaning and landscaping, their work is both visible and behind-the-scenes. The floors get waxed, the walls are touched up, and playgrounds, athletic fields, and outdoor spaces are maintained—all within a compressed summer timeline.

These quiet heroes work long hours, often behind the scenes and without recognition. But their contributions are essential. They are a vital part of the team that ensures our schools are more than just buildings—they are safe, comfortable, and welcoming environments for learning and growth.

Moving Forward

With so much happening in such a short period, the coordination, planning, and expertise behind these efforts cannot be overstated. Director Eric Stokes and his team continue to show a deep commitment to Citrus County Schools, ensuring that our facilities reflect the high standards we hold for education in our community.

As summer winds down and the school year approaches, students and staff will return to buildings that are not just refreshed—but reimagined for the future.

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